Makaton Matters: The Importance of Makaton and How You Can Use It To Communicate
August 21, 2025
Communication is a fundamental part of human interaction, allowing us to express our thoughts, emotions, and needs. However, communication can be difficult for those with speech or language difficulties. This is where Makaton comes in: a visual language system combining symbols, speech, and signs.
This system supports those with learning or communication difficulties by providing another form of communication. Makaton can help individuals express themselves more easily, promoting inclusion, understanding, and connection.
This article focuses on Makaton and its resources in the UK, but it is used all over the world.
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a type of augmentative and alternative communication system (AAC). It uses a combination of signs, symbols, and speech in order to support and facilitate communication. Makaton is used by children and adults with various learning or communication difficulties and disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, and Down’s Syndrome. However, it is not just for people with disabilities and communication difficulties. Many families, teachers, caregivers, and professionals use Makaton as a way to bridge communication gaps.
The Components of Makaton
Three main components are combined to support communication.
Signs
Makaton uses a specific set of hand signs that are based on British Sign Language (BSL) and adapted for simplicity and ease of use.
Symbols
Makaton symbols are visual representations of words or ideas. They are often computerised pictures or drawings.
Speech
While Makaton includes signs and symbols, speech is also an integral part of the system. It is encouraged that those who can speak say the word aloud as they perform the sign or show the symbol.
This multi-sensory approach strengthens the connection between spoken words and their meanings. This makes it easier for users to understand and produce language.
How Does Makaton Support Communication?
Makaton plays a crucial role in enabling individuals to communicate in a way that feels natural and meaningful. It is not only a tool for those who have difficulty with speech, but it also supports anyone who may struggle to express themselves effectively due to various conditions. Here is how Makaton helps:
Enhance Understanding
It can feel frustrating for someone when they are trying to communicate but are not being understood, or if they are trying to listen but are unable to understand what they are being told. The use of signs and symbols alongside speech helps reinforce understanding. It provides a visual cue that makes it easier for individuals to grasp what is being said. This can reduce frustration and promote a greater sense of connection.
Support Language Development
Using signs and symbols can support early language development as it helps the individual form a connection between the spoken word and the meaning.
Encourage Expression
Individuals who find it hard to communicate verbally can use Makaton to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs. This opens up new channels for communication, which can greatly improve quality of life, reduce stress, and increase confidence.
Promote Inclusivity
Makaton makes communication accessible to a broader group of people. This fosters more inclusive environments in homes, schools, and workplaces. It encourages and provides another way for people to participate in conversations, helping them feel valued and heard.
How Can You Start Learning Makaton?
If you are considering learning Makaton, there are several ways to get started. Here are some tips:
The Makaton Charity
The Makaton Charity offers a range of free and paid resources for people learning Makaton. These include videos and downloadable materials that can help you practice and incorporate Makaton into your life. Many of these resources are designed to be beginner-friendly and practical.
They also have a Sign Of The Week, so you can learn and practice a new sign every week to start building your vocabulary.
Start with Core Vocabulary
Start with core vocabulary that are commonly used in daily life, such as “hello”, “goodbye”, “thank you”, “please”, “eat”, and “drink”.
You can find core vocabulary on The Makaton Charity website, and you can also find videos online.
Just make sure these videos are from a trusted Makaton user to ensure you are learning the correct sign.
Start Small and Be Patient
Learning a new communication system can seem overwhelming at first. Makaton has a Core Vocabulary of 450 concepts, and a Resource Vocabulary of over 11,000 concepts. You cannot learn all of the vocabulary at once, so it is important to start small. Focus on the core concepts and the words you would use regularly in your everyday life. Communication improvements, even small ones, can make a huge difference, so make sure to celebrate small successes along the way.
Be Consistent
Consistency is crucial when learning and using Makaton. Use the signs and symbols regularly in everyday contexts. The more often you use Makaton, the quicker everyone will become familiar with it.
Keep it Fun
Learning a new communication system shouldn’t be a chore! Make Makaton fun by using songs, games, and creative activities to practice signs and symbols. The more enjoyable the learning process is, the more likely it is to stick.
One way of keeping it fun could be watching the Something Special videos. These give you fun videos of nursery rhymes, stories, and more to learn Makaton.
How Can You Incorporate Makaton Into Your Everyday Life?
Once you have started learning Makaton, the next step is to integrate it into your daily routines. Here are some practical ways to do so:
Include the Family
If you are a caregiver or a parent, encourage the whole family to use Makaton at home. This helps reinforce the signs and symbols, making it easier for the person using Makaton to communicate with everyone in the household. It also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment.
Use Makaton During Meals
At mealtimes, incorporate Makaton signs for food items, drinks, and utensils. This can be a fun way to learn, especially with young children or those you care for. It also helps individuals feel more confident when asking for food or drinks, as they can use the appropriate signs.
Visual Cues Around the House
Place Makaton symbols or pictures around the house for common activities or items, such as “bath”, “play”, or “bed”. These visual reminders can help those who have difficulty remembering certain words or concepts and provide a quick and easy way to communicate their needs.
Speak to Educators
In order to support your young person in all aspects of life, it is important to speak to their educators and anyone else who works with them or has regular communication with them. Using Makaton signs during lessons or in other settings can create a more inclusive environment and give everyone the tools they need to communicate more easily.
Final Thoughts
Makaton can be incredibly helpful in supporting communication. Whether you’re a caregiver, teacher, friend, or just someone interested in learning, Makaton offers a range of benefits for people with speech and language difficulties.
Start small, practice regularly, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to a better understanding and connecting with those around you. Makaton is more than just a system; it is a way to break down barriers and open up a world of communication possibilities.
Also, you may be interested to know that International Makaton Awareness Day is August 28th, with the theme of friendship and connection!